USAV Nationals: 15 Open Must-See Matchups

SETTERS

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Carolyn Maria (Metro) vs. Roxy Rigo (Mintonette)

Two recent standouts from the spring NTDP session, Maria and Rigo are both fast-rising setters in the 2029 class. Both are taller than your average setter, with Maria standing at 6’1” and Rigo at 6’0”, and have already attracted no shortage of attention from top college programs. Rigo, who received MVP honors in the 14 American division at last year’s nationals, runs a fast-paced system with excellent tempo to the pins and continues to demonstrate steady physical gains in her blocking and approach touch. Across the net, Maria commands the floor with exceptional poise. Her footwork and body control makes for a setter who can easily turn out-of-system passes into hittable balls. 

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Evelyn Shirk (1st Alliance) vs. Andie Blomenkamp (Premier NE)

Shirk and Blomenkamp are two setters who look far more seasoned than you would expect given their age. Both run a variety of tempos and make plays that elevate their respective teams. In Shirk’s case, her lefty swing and experience hitting on the right side make her impossible to count out as an offensive option when she’s in the front row, while both setters are good decision-makers who also can be very deceptive in where they are going to set the ball. 

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PINS

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Peyton Barclift (MODE) vs. Lola Mogridge (OTVA)

Battle of the ‘30s outsides! These two hitters have been playing up a year and it’s clear why: they both have heavy arms and take confident swings over on the left pin that put them at a level above their peers. Mogridge is coming off a semifinals finish at AAU where she was a key contributor from all areas of the court, taking lots of big swings at critical moments to propel her team to success. Barclift is a player whose athleticism jumps out from the second you see her start her approach, and she has shown the ability to make the most out of any set and situation. 

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Sahmone Wadsworth (AZ Storm) vs. Taylor Sembower (Gainesville Jrs)

These two true six-rotation outsides going head-to-head will make for an exciting match. Both are rising all-around players who can make an impact no matter the rotation or where they’re lining up on the court. Sembower, who was named the 14 National MVP at last year’s GJNC, is a big jumper who gets high off the ground to attack sharp angles. Wadsworth, who was part of the 14 Open all-tournament team last year, also gets off the ground well and has excellent court vision that allows her to see the best shot to take.

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Ellie Chamorro (HJV) vs. Gia Stokes (Boiler Jrs)

These are two pins who have the size and skill to carry a heavy offensive load for their teams when a match is on the line. Chamorro brings a clean arm swing and reliable termination to her team, mixing in a variety of shots. Stokes, on the other side, has raw power and dominating physicality that makes for a heavy ball when she gets a swing. 

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MIDDLES

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Hayley Hobbs (Dallas Skyline) vs. Madison Middleton (A5)

An absolute blockbuster matchup at the net features two incredibly physical prospects who are already playing well beyond their years. Middleton (out of the 2030 class) is an elite, explosive athlete with a lightning-fast arm and a poise to her game that is rare for her age and is one reason she’s already won a gold medal playing with the Team USA U17 squad. Hobbs, who won last year’s GJNC in the 14 Open division with Dallas Skyline, brings the perfect counter as a formidable, shutdown defender whose lateral quickness and immense length completely disrupt opposing offensive game plans. While Middleton commands the floor with advanced court awareness and a powerhouse jump, Hobbs anchors her team with elite hand penetration and a rapidly developing transition attack.

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Yemaya Chappell (Actyve) vs. Sayge Chandler (Madfrog)

This matchup features two physical and highly effective middle blockers who excel at impacting the game on both sides of the ball. Chappell, a 6’3” NTDP participant, brings excellent court mobility and a quick transition game that allows her to hit around blocks with confidence. Her well-rounded skillset and solid blocking mechanics have already drawn considerable attention. On the other side, Chandler is a disciplined defender who reads setters well, uses efficient footwork to close blocks, and consistently alters opposing attacks. Offensively, she hits with power and takes advantage of any openings in the defense. Expect a highly competitive battle in the center of the net as both players look to establish defensive control and spark their team's transition offense.

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LIBEROS

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Cadence Talaga (SC Rockstar) vs. Evie Ellis (Circle City)

This back row battle features two instinctive defenders who bring exceptional control and stability to their respective teams. Talaga is a dynamic, high-energy libero who covers a lot of court and makes use of strong platform angles and a calm demeanor to anchor her team's serve receive. On the other side, Ellis brings a smart, balanced defensive style. She anticipates her opponent's movements well, allowing her to track hitters early and effortlessly pursue balls. We can expect some long rallies to transpire thanks to these two defensive juggernauts.